Vernon stroll

ViaggiatoreOn the walk back to the ship captured these two buildings. Here's their significance. This is a beautiful photo of Vernon, and you’ve captured two of its most iconic landmarks in one frame: 🏰 Left: Tour des Archives (Archive Tower) • This round stone tower with conical rooftops is part of the remnants of Vernon’s medieval castle, dating back to the 12th century. • It’s one of the few surviving parts of the town’s original fortifications. • Though not always open to the public, it stands as a historic symbol of Vernon’s medieval past. 🏠 Right: Le Vieux Moulin (The Old Mill) • This is perhaps Vernon’s most famous structure — a 16th-century timber-framed mill house dramatically perched on the remains of an old stone bridge over the Seine. • It’s no longer a functioning mill, but it remains one of the most photographed scenes in Normandy. • The view you captured is especially evocative — water, architecture, and greenery all in one. ⛴️ In Front: Barge on the Seine • The Seine River remains an active waterway through Vernon, used by both leisure boats and working vessels like the one in your photo. • Strolling along the riverbank in Vernon offers stunning views like this — a mix of Norman charm and natural serenity.

ViaggiatoreThe Plane tree seen in the photos is described as such : This is a London plane tree (Platanus × acerifolia), a hybrid of the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) and the Oriental plane (Platanus orientalis). It’s very recognizable by: • 🟤 Thick, patchy bark that flakes off in plates, revealing creamy or greenish underbark • 🍃 Large maple-like leaves • 🌳 A massive trunk and wide canopy, especially in older specimens like the one you’ve photographed ⸻ 🌍 Why It’s Common in Europe — Especially in Vernon The London plane is one of the most widely planted urban trees in Europe, especially near rivers and boulevards. It thrives in polluted or compacted soil, making it perfect for cities — and it handles flooding or drought well. In Vernon, these trees are commonly found: • Along the Seine riverbanks for shade and erosion control • Near historic areas to complement the town’s old-world charm ⸻ 🌳 Possible Significance of This Tree: While this specific tree may not be officially famous, its size and age suggest it’s likely been there for well over 100 years, silently witnessing: • Changes in river traffic (from working barges to scenic cruises) • Historic events, including the German occupation during WWII • Generations of artists, walkers, and tourists pausing in its shade Its presence near the cruise boat docking area makes it a natural landmark for visitors arriving in Vernon — a majestic first impression of the town’s leafy, historic beauty